PETA nominates UC Irvine for vegetarian-friendly menu

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ youth organization recently nominated UC Irvine for the first time as one of the most vegetarian-friendly colleges in the country.

“We’ve really stepped up our program over the last two years,” said Jackie Vanderwiel, UCI Dining spokeswoman. Restaurants on campus offer an assortment of vegetarian options.

Soy hot dogs, burgers and vegan ribs and teriyaki bowls have been added to the menu. The main student dining area even has an “exhibition station” where a chef personalizes meals to the student’s liking. The kitchen has five frying pans, so vegetarians and vegans don’t have to use the same cookware as those with different diets.

Thirty U.S. and 10 Canadian colleges have been nominated, with the winner to be announced Dec. 3. To vote for the “Most Vegetarian-Friendly College in America,” go to www.Peta2.com/college.

— Joseph Serna